Catheter-associated urinary tract infections are the most common nosocomial infection and a frequent cause of significant morbidity, sepsis, and death. The pathogenesis is multifaceted. Most frequently, bacteria from the urethral meatus ascend to the bladder between the mucosal and catheter surfaces. Alternatively, bacteria may ascend within the drainage system following contamination of the drainage bag or disruption of the catheter tubing junction. The incidence of infection is approximately… CONTINUE READING